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08 January 2006

New Book: "Armenian Nakhichevan or distorted NAXCIVAN"

Azad-Hye, Dubai 6 January 2006: With the advent of the New Year 2006 a newbook was published by Syrian-Armenian writer Avo Katerjian (resident ofAleppo). The book, which is one of rare publications dedicated toNakhichevan (historical Armenian area now under Azerbaijani control,situated between Armenia and Iran), examines the history of Nakhichevan, itsvillages, churches and well-known people.

The book sheds light on the destruction of the Armenian cultural heritage inthat area by the Azeris, referring also to the recent vandalism committedagainst historical stone-crosses, an act that has received someinternational attention due to the circulation of a short film showing Azerisoldiers busy in the demolition mission.

Avo Katerjian believes firmly that Nakhichevan cannot be forgotten or wipedout from the Armenian history.

The main chapters of the book:

-The destruction caused by Communism and the arbitrary policy of Stalin.

-Nakhichevan: victim of false agreements.

-Main locations (Charour, Chugha, Kokhten, Ordubad, etc.)

-Famous people from Nakhichevan.

-The falsification of geographical locations: Numerous locations (includingthe name of the area itself, many villages, mountains, rivers, etc.) used tohave Armenian names but later the Azeris, following the example of theirkinsmen in Turkey, changed those names into Turkish ones.

-The Annihilation of the Armenian cultural heritage. -Basic guidelines for Armenian official policy towards the area.

At the end of the book, Avo Katerjian points out that the Azeris are tryingto create new facts on the ground. This danger should be faced by the wholeArmenian nation, he concludes.

Avo Katerjian has published many articles in the Armenian press dealing withother aspects of Nakhichevan.

The book is enriched with old and recent photos (such as the famous stonecrosses) and a detailed bibliography. It ends with a poem written by theauthor in 1996 dedicated to Nakhichevan and performed by Mesrob MahsdotsArmenian Childrens Choir in Aleppo, Syria. The same song is included in theaccompanying CD.